We are investigating new engineering principles and developing tools that will allow us realize haptic and robotic systems that reflect the astounding capabilities of biological organisms. To do this, we develop theoretical and empirical knowledge to guide the design of electronic technologies that allow for touch, movement, and interaction, and to create mechanically resilient, soft robotic systems. We apply these advances to challenges in haptics, VR, robotics, and healthcare, such as diabetes detection, sensory impairments, or rehabilitation. Our group draws on expertise in electrical and computer engineering, signal processing, neuroscience, art, design, and robotics.

UCSB is an outstanding place to work, and College of Engineering is renowned for its research excellence. Engineering faculty members include three Nobel Laureates, 37 members of the National Academies of Engineering or Invention, numerous IEEE Fellows and other awards. UCSB was ranked the #1 public university in the world for engineering research citation impact (Leiden, 2015, 2016), and ranked #9 in the world for producing Nobel laureates (Times Higher Education, 2017). All of our engineering graduate programs were in among top 5 in the most recent US National Research Council rankings. Our Materials and Chemical Engineering graduate programs consistently rank among the top 5 in the US (US News, 2016, and NRC).